Rosemary Crossley (1945–2023)

This book tells the story of Annie, a young girl with cerebral palsy who is placed in a brutal institution, where the staff believed that the severe physical disability was matched by a lack of mental adroitness. Then along came Rosemary, who began to see those trapped by prejudice, ignorance and, lastly, their own bodies.

I read this book many, many years ago and have struggled to obtain another copy. At the time of my first reading it, I was challenged to think very differently about disability and disease. This book, this story inspired me to work in the health industry because it showed just how much prejudice and narrow-minded thinking continued well into the 20th Century.

If you ever have the chance, read this story, because it will inspire you, it will make you sad, angry, frustrated, and it will make you WANT to change.… (more)